WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What makes someone more likely to snore? Snoring is more common in men, older adults, and people who are overweight. You are more likely to snore after you drink alcohol or take medicines that make you drowsy or relaxed. Women are more likely to snore in the later stages of pregnancy. You are more likely to snore if you have a cold, stuffy nose, or throat problems, such as tonsillitis. A deviated septum can also cause snoring. The septum is in the middle of the nose and divides your nostrils. A septum that is deviated is not in the correct place. How is the cause of snoring diagnosed? Your healthcare provider will examine you and ask about your sleep pattern and snoring. You may need a sleep study. This is an overnight test that checks for problems with breathing while you sleep. How can I manage my snoring? - Change your sleep position. Try a different sleep position, such as lying on your side. This may help decrease snoring.
- Use a dental device. You may need to use a dental device while you sleep. It is similar to a retainer or mouth guard. The device helps keep your airway open while you sleep. Ask your healthcare provider or dentist about a dental device.
- Talk to your healthcare provider about alcohol and medicines that make you drowsy. Alcohol and certain medicines can increase your snoring.
- Lose weight. This will help decrease or stop your snoring. Ask your healthcare provider if you need to lose weight and how much you should lose. Ask for help with a weight loss program.
- Get plenty of exercise. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best exercise plan for you. Exercise can help you lose weight, decrease your blood pressure, and improve your health.
How are breathing problems related to snoring treated? You may need the following if snoring causes you to stop breathing: - A CPAP is a machine that keeps your airway open while you sleep. You wear a mask over your nose or over your nose and mouth. The mask is held in place by elastic straps that go around your head. The mask is hooked to the CPAP machine. The machine blows a gentle stream of air into the mask. This helps keep your airway open so you can breathe more regularly. Extra oxygen can also be given through the machine.
- Nose or throat surgery may be needed if you have trouble breathing due to your snoring. Ask your healthcare provider for more information about surgery.
When should I contact my healthcare provider? - You wake up often during the night.
- You feel more tired than usual.
- You have frequent headaches or feel depressed.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
When should I seek immediate care or call 911? - You have chest pain.
- You have new shortness of breath.
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